LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A petition circulating in Louisville's Highlands could reshape the Bardstown Road entertainment district, and business owners say it could put some bars and restaurants at risk.

If the proposal reaches the ballot and is approved by voters, bars and restaurants in three precincts would have to generate at least 70% of their revenue from food instead of alcohol.

Supporters launched the petition after a series of high-profile fights, shootings and other late-night incidents along Bardstown Road. They hope the change would reduce crime and noise in the area.

Business owners, however, argue the proposal would hurt establishments that depend on alcohol sales to stay in business.

"Most businesses profit off of alcohol," said Sean Vandevander, spokesperson for the Louisville Hospitality Association.

Many restaurants simply can't make up that revenue through food sales alone.

"Food is not that profitable unless you're selling very high priced food."

The Louisville Hospitality Association estimates about 25 businesses in Metro Council District 8 could be affected if the measure passes.

The petition was submitted to the Jefferson County Clerk's Office by Stephen Riley, Greg Johnston and Jen Belden.

The organizers could not be reached for comment. Supporter Rob Willie, who is the incoming president of the Cherokee Triangle neighborhood association declined an interview. He said he is not yet authorized to speak for the board.

District 8 Advisory Board Chair Honi Goldman believes the proposal does not address the root causes of the violence.

"It is focusing on the bars or the restaurants and not tackling the real problems that are occurring."

Instead, Goldman pointed to local and state government, saying additional resources and other public safety measures are needed.

"The people that are behind the petition and are behind the moist vote are good people. They mean well, but it's not going to solve the problem."

Goldman also noted Bardstown Road's location next to residential neighborhoods makes it difficult to implement some security measures, such as road closures or checkpoints, without creating additional challenges.

The petition must gather enough valid signatures before it can move to a local election. If that happens, voters in the affected precincts will decide whether to approve the proposed food sales requirement.

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